Currently, Wellman is merely a depth forward with little fantasy value. He will open the season with Hersey (AHL).

2012-13

Wellman was acquired by the Panthers in the offseason from the Wild for a fourth-round pick. The 24-year-old center appeared in 14 games last season for the Wild, finishing with seven points (2G, 5A). Speed and positional flexibility are real assets for Wellman and could help him land a spot on the veteran Panther roster. Wellman is projected to start the season in the AHL.

2011-12

Wellman's career path has been anything but conventional. The 23-year-old went undrafted and jumped directly from college (Umass-Amherst) to the NHL (Minnesota) in 2009-10. Then, last season, he split time between the Wild and AHL Houston, posting two points in 15 games with the big club, and 35 points (14 G , 21 A) in 42 minor league contests. He has decent upside handling the puck, but is merely a depth option getting a feel for the pro game.

2010-11

The California native is looking to make a big impact this season in Minnesota. Lat year, Wellman played in 12 games, netting himself four points (1 G, 3 A). Coach Todd Richards liked what he saw from Wellman this preseason, so he should see a lot more action this year. The 22-year-old center hasn't done anything yet though to warrant drafting him just yet.